CryptoPunks
2017 (June)
CryptoPunks is a collection of 10,000 unique, algorithmically generated 8-bit character images that were created by the software development company Larva Labs in 2017. Each CryptoPunk is one-of-a-kind and has its own distinct set of characteristics, such as hairstyle, clothing, and accessories.
CryptoPunks are considered to be one of the first true NFT (non-fungible token) projects, as each one is a unique digital asset that can be bought, sold, and traded on the Ethereum blockchain. They were initially released for free, but users had to pay a small gas fee to claim them.
The popularity of CryptoPunks grew rapidly, and they quickly became a hot topic in the blockchain and crypto communities. Some of the more rare and sought-after CryptoPunks have sold for millions of dollars in ETH, making them one of the most valuable NFT collections in existence.
In addition to their value as collectibles, CryptoPunks have also been used in a variety of ways, such as in marketing campaigns, as avatars for social media profiles, and as part of digital art installations. They have become an iconic symbol of the early days of NFTs and continue to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.